Katsina bans fuel sales in jerrycans, motorcycle use in two LGAs over insecurity

The Katsina State government has implemented stringent new measures, including a statewide ban on selling and storing petroleum products in jerrycans, to combat escalating banditry and kidnapping. Governor Dikko Radda announced the restrictions via an Executive Order following an emergency security meeting.

The order also prohibits motorcycle use, Point of Sale (POS) businesses, and commercial phone charging centers in Matazu and Musawa local government areas, regions that have recently faced persistent security challenges. According to a statement from the governor's spokesperson, Ibrahim Mohammed, these actions are designed to disrupt criminal networks by cutting off their access to essential logistics and communication tools.

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As part of the Executive Order, the sale, purchase, transportation and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans have been banned across Katsina State with immediate effect. The measure is designed to prevent the diversion of fuel supplies to criminal elements operating in remote locations.

Security assessments revealed that some POS outlets and charging centers in Matazu and Musawa were being exploited by criminal networks. The ban on motorcycles is intended to hinder the mobility of bandits and kidnappers who frequently use them for attacks and escapes. These new restrictions come amid intensified military operations against armed groups in Katsina State. Recently, troops rescued Amina Abubakar, the widow of a former Director of Defence Information, who had been abducted along with her husband, who later died in captivity.

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Security assessments have shown that these facilities are being exploited by criminal networks to facilitate their activities.